In Reply to: John Garavan RIP posted by MMcG on May 01, 2011 at 16:01:33:

There will be hundreds of mourners at the funeral of John, and we as the parents of John's daughter in law, Rebecca (Hugh's wife), would like to send a message of love and condolences to all.

During our travels to Ireland we were privileged to learn about John, his family, friends and country.  His remarkable knowledge of his homeland were presented to us with the utmost sincerity combined with a great  deal of good humor and flair.  Whether it was his beloved home and Castlebar, or a tour of the Aran Islands, John presiding in court, a daily  Mass, or a visit to his ancestors burial plot;  we knew our guide would share like no other.

On one such memorable drive we visited numerous small churches,  Croagh Patrick, a drive through Connemara, Kylemore Abbey and so many places of historical significance.  The most outstanding highlight of that drive was when John stopped by a nondescript roadside marker where he prayed. There, with much emotion and a tear in his eye,  John explained this memorial dedicated to victims of the famine.  That moment will leave an indelible memory of a man who lived as a true Irishman.

Our John Garavan embodied a Trinity of his own life:  Love of God, Love of Family, and Love of Country.  We were honored to   have known such a gifted, spirited man. Surely that spirit will live on in his children, grandchildren and descendants to come.

With our deepest sympathy to his beloved Ann, Mark, Eoin, Hugh, Jeananne and their families, and to all those who knew and loved him.  May his soul rest in Peace.        

Jim and Madonna Rouiller and family (Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA)